Ma chere frere This steamer is so long behind her time. She was expected on Friday and is only making her appearance now. There seems quite a reaction in this place already. Everyone hopeful of changes for the better. Ormond gives out that your ministry is the strongest that has ever been in power and thinks Gisborne going is such a bulwark. Do take care of your health. If that breaks down you cannot do much good. The amount of anxiety and work at present must be great. Good deal of sickness in families though the weather is beautiful. Saw Mrs Ormond yesterday. They are all well. Mrs Smith is I fear sinking fast. She takes nothing but a little claret & milk. I seem to be kept so busy visiting and going about but it is distressing to see so many people ill. No one down from the station. Flax is a great mania here at present. Begin to weary very much for your return. The nights are long & lonesome. Hope Mr Strang is well. Yours aff[ectionate]ly Annabella McLean Napier Sunday morning